Terri Lee Washburn

Terri Lee (Wendt) Washburn was welcomed into this world on July 18, 1953, in Michigan City, Indiana. From the very beginning, she brought warmth, strength, and kindness to the lives of those around her. On July 7, 2026, Terri peacefully left this earth, leaving behind a lifetime of treasured memories and a family who loved her deeply. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in knowing that her love, laughter, and gentle spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched.

She graduated from Valley Center High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, with the Class of 1972 and continued her education at Butler Community College, where she earned her associate degree. Her determination, intelligence, and caring nature shaped not only her career but also the way she lived her life each day with purpose, compassion, and grace.

For more than twenty years, Terri dedicated herself to her work at MKC and later Caleba's, serving as an administrator and scheduler. She was known for her strong work ethic, dependable spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need. Her coworkers became friends, and many will remember her patient guidance, caring heart, and unwavering support.

Terri's greatest joy in life was the people she loved. Above all else, Terri cherished her family. Her heart found happiness in nature, children, animals, gathering loved ones around the table, and creating a home filled with warmth and love. Whether sharing a meal, offering advice, or simply spending time together, Terri had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and loved. She was fiercely independent, incredibly strong, and endlessly compassionate, a steady source of comfort and encouragement to all who knew her.

Terri's greatest pride was her family. She was a devoted mother to Tiffany, Christopher, Thomas, and Ashley, and a beloved grandmother to Coral, Tucker, Jade, Ruby, Hailey, Trinity, Cody, Ella, Tristan, Leila, and Paige. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Through the stories they share, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely, her legacy will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.

She is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Jackie, and her brother, Rob, whose lifelong bonds brought her comfort, laughter, and companionship.

Terri now joins those she loved and missed dearly: her father, Robert; her mother, Margaret; her beloved husband, Richard; her son, Michael; her sisters, Cindy and DeeDee; her brother, Andrew; and many cherished friends. We take comfort in imagining the joyful reunion that now surrounds her.

While Terri's absence leaves an immeasurable emptiness in our hearts, her life was a beautiful example of unconditional love, resilience, and generosity. Her kindness touched countless people, and the memories she created will be treasured forever. Those fortunate enough to know her will carry forward her legacy by loving deeply, laughing often, helping others, and cherishing the precious gift of family.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026,at 10:30 am at the Federated Church in Whitewater, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made in Terri's honor to Harry Hynes Hospice or Whitewater Kansas Community Cats, Inc. Lamb Funeral Home is assisting the family during this time.

The family invites you to share memories and condolences by signing Terri's online guestbook.

Though she may be gone from our sight, she will never be gone from our hearts. Her love remains with us always, guiding us, comforting us, and reminding us of the beautiful life she lived. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her. ❤️